Allergic reactions initiated Karie Howell's interest several years ago in natural and non-allergenic health and beauty products. After finding a source in Billings for her own personal use, she began making a regular trip to keep herself supplied. When that company, Cafe Earth, came up for sale, Karie jumped at the chance to obtain and grow a business she was already personally invested in.

Karie got her start in selling unique products in 1996 with the opening of Terra Del Sol in downtown Great Falls. They offered a full line of botanical bath and body products, but none that they made themselves. With the acquistion of the Cafe Earth business, the store name was changed, and they became a Made in Montana company. Essentially, Karie works with a lab to develop the formula for each product, and then the lab also assists with production. They are very competitive with offerings and prices available nationally.

Today, Cafe Earth has moved to very classy location on a busy street complete with marble tiles and a sophisticated decor you might find in a much larger city. They offer soap by the slice, salon hair care products, 100% fragrance free options, plus many other items that are hard to find, such as imported wooden giraffes and large candles from France. As they continue to thrive, they plan to double their retail space and introduce a new line of products, based on Cafe Earth formulas, for national department stores. Her store is worth a visit for the exotic fragrances and upscale decor, and of course her products and web site are now listed in the Made in Montana Catalog.